Mersey ideal for renewable energy

The River Mersey's strong tides are ideal for making renewable energy

The River Mersey should be used to produce renewable energy, according to a new study.

Scientists say the Mersey is one of the best sources of marine renewable energy because of its powerful currents.

A team of experts, lead by a Cambridge University professor, has been studying the river for a year to find ways of generating electricity from its tides.

One option being considered is a giant water wheel, but the use of turbines is also being investigated.

Pilot project

The study has been co-sponsored by Peel Holdings, owner of the Mersey Docks and Harbour Company, and the North West Development Agency.

Professor Peter Gutherie, who led the study, said: "It is a good site.

"The potential for the River Mersey for generating tidal power is very considerable.

"It has got good tidal current velocities, and it has got good storage in the Mersey estuary basin, so there are a wide variety of opportunities for tidal power to be generated there."

A pilot project is being considered - possibly at Bootle Docks - but the announcement is expected to be made when the study team releases its final findings in April.